Business Travel Bangalore
Bangalore is one of the most hip and happening cities in India and is also a major center of the I.T. industry. Nicknamed the silicon valley of India Bangalore is the center of the Indian I.T. outsourcing movement, and has offices of many foreign tech companies as well as a number of native Indian tech startups.
Bangalore is an ideal city for meetings, work-shops and seminars as the whole city works round the clock and the environment is totally work oriented plus the weather is great all year round.
Here are a few important facts for the business traveler.
Accommodations
Good hotels in Bangalore can be pretty expensive, but like all cities there is a wide selection from the budget hotels to the mid-range to the five stars.
Budget hotel- Ivory Tower
Mid-Range hotel- Ista Hotel
Five-star- The Taj Residency & Ista Hotel
Transport
Plane-Bangalore Airport (BLR) is a domestic airport that caters to certain international flights too. All major international flights have a stopover here and it is connected all major airports of the world.
Train-The Bangalore City railway station is situated in the centre of the city. All trains, both local and long-distance, arrive and depart from here. Bangalore also has a railway station in the Cantonment Area, called the Cantonment Railway Station this is in a better part of town. Not all trains stop here, however.
Bus-There are both government and private busses that run services to major nearby cities. All intercity buses arrive and depart from Bangalore bus stand, which is located opposite the city railway station called 'the Majestic Bus Station'. It handles buses that connect Bangalore to all major cities and states in south India.
Inter-City Travel
Bus-The main bus stand which maintains bus services within the city, is located next to the majestic Bus Station. The whole city is well connected through various bus stations. A huge problem is that the display boards in the bus show the destination in Kannada only. But it is the cheapest option available.
Autorickshaw- Theses are yellow three wheeled contraptions seen all over the city, they are a fast way to get around the city. Not exactly the safest way around they are definitely better than busses and less expensive than taxis.
Taxi- taxis are not marked with 'TAXI' signs you must call for a taxi which is easily done through the hotel. The taxis in Bangalore are very convenient and comfortable. Though the taxis are not exactly cheap they are safer and less traumatizing than the auto or bus.
Food & Drink
Bangalore has hundreds of fast food joints and restaurants serving south Indian vegetarian and non-veg food plus the regular MNC fast food joints like KFC, Pizza Hut and MacDonald. Day. There are also high end restaurants serving continental food, seafood and fish in Bangalore is also quite popular. Like all big cities Bangalore has from the very cheap to the very expensive food joints. Bangalore is home to numerous pubs and bars earning it the nickname the Pub City of India.
Shopping
Bane of a business traveler’s life but a must, Bangalore provides wide range of options.
M.G Road/ area is the most popular place for tourists, filled with shops of every kind, traditional handicrafts or the latest western wear.
Brigade Road is the centre of yuppie Bangalore, full of MNC stores and eating joints.
Commercial Street a shopping area that sells international along side locally produced items. Commercial Street has more of a bazaar feel than Brigade Road. it is famous for its tattoo and body piercing centers.
Forum Mall you can find anything at the Forum, high international brands. For eating there is Fast food (KFC, McDonalds, Pizza Hut, Subway) Cafe Coffee Day and a food court with world cuisines.
Garuda Mall Located on the corner of McGrath and Commissariat Roads is the newest mall in Bangalore. This Mall is definitely catered to the upper class of Indian society.
Bangalore Central is more of a large department store than a mall with separate retailers. It still is must visit for shoppers in Bangalore. It has a huge range of everything clothing electronics, perfumes, accessories as well as a supermarket on the top floor and food court
Visit: http://www.istahotels.com/main.html for more information.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Travel tips
India has always intrigued and mesmerized the rest of the world and will continue to do so!! Welcome to India- where splendor bedazzles, traditions speak and variety delights It is a haven of tourism delights, a nation to tour through. Tourists come to India for its wealth of tourist attractions, cultural enthusiasm, and variety of terrain and in search of that unique something, an added punch that only India delivers.
While visiting this exotic abode, you must know some basic facts.
Visas
The first thing is to know about visas to India. Citizens of all countries, except Nepal & Bhutan, need a legitimate national passport or legitimate travel documents and a legitimate visa granted by Missions abroad for entering India. A
Transportation
India is well linked to international countries and it has a wide internal transport network within. The Rail network in India is largest in the world. You will not face any difficulty while traveling in India through rail and road. All the major metropolises in India have an international airport and are well connected through the rail network.
Money
The Indian currency is called Indian Rupee (INR). The Rupee comes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000.Sites like Finance India have currency converters that are a great help. The site helps convert US dollar into India rupee within seconds. Declare any amount over US$ 10,000 on arrival
Culture
India is a conservative country .It is advisable to dress modestly. Although safe travelers should guard against theft and beware of unscrupulous agents, travel guides etc.There are many who will try to overcharge you, so arm yourself with information as to standard rates before leaving the hotel. You will also come across many street beggars. It may seem heartless but it is much safer to ignore them. If you give alms to one then you will be overwhelmed by all the beggars in that area.
Weather
The Indian subcontinent has eight climatic zones. India has such varied temperature zones that with in a couple of hours, one is able to see a drastic temperature changes from the cold crisp air of the mountains to the burning dry heat of the Rajasthan Desert. So, bring clothing according to the weather of the place you are going to tour.
In addition to the above there are some general rules of travel that all tourists should follow --
• Carry back all non-degradable litter such as empty bottles,
tins, plastic bags etc. These must not litter the environment or be buried.
They must be disposed in proper dustbins only.
• Observe the sacredness of holy sites, temples and local cultures.
• Do not play loudly radios; tapes etc. in nature resorts, sanctuaries and
wildlife parks.
• Value people's privacy while clicking photographs. Ask for prior
consent before taking a photograph
Keeping these tips in mind will ensure you have a hassle free enjoyable trip.
Visit: http://www.istahotels.com/main.html for more information.
While visiting this exotic abode, you must know some basic facts.
Visas
The first thing is to know about visas to India. Citizens of all countries, except Nepal & Bhutan, need a legitimate national passport or legitimate travel documents and a legitimate visa granted by Missions abroad for entering India. A
Transportation
India is well linked to international countries and it has a wide internal transport network within. The Rail network in India is largest in the world. You will not face any difficulty while traveling in India through rail and road. All the major metropolises in India have an international airport and are well connected through the rail network.
Money
The Indian currency is called Indian Rupee (INR). The Rupee comes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000.Sites like Finance India have currency converters that are a great help. The site helps convert US dollar into India rupee within seconds. Declare any amount over US$ 10,000 on arrival
Culture
India is a conservative country .It is advisable to dress modestly. Although safe travelers should guard against theft and beware of unscrupulous agents, travel guides etc.There are many who will try to overcharge you, so arm yourself with information as to standard rates before leaving the hotel. You will also come across many street beggars. It may seem heartless but it is much safer to ignore them. If you give alms to one then you will be overwhelmed by all the beggars in that area.
Weather
The Indian subcontinent has eight climatic zones. India has such varied temperature zones that with in a couple of hours, one is able to see a drastic temperature changes from the cold crisp air of the mountains to the burning dry heat of the Rajasthan Desert. So, bring clothing according to the weather of the place you are going to tour.
In addition to the above there are some general rules of travel that all tourists should follow --
• Carry back all non-degradable litter such as empty bottles,
tins, plastic bags etc. These must not litter the environment or be buried.
They must be disposed in proper dustbins only.
• Observe the sacredness of holy sites, temples and local cultures.
• Do not play loudly radios; tapes etc. in nature resorts, sanctuaries and
wildlife parks.
• Value people's privacy while clicking photographs. Ask for prior
consent before taking a photograph
Keeping these tips in mind will ensure you have a hassle free enjoyable trip.
Visit: http://www.istahotels.com/main.html for more information.
Looking for Business Hotels
Not every hotel is geared for business travelers. Some are simply meant for holiday travelers, and focus on leisure features. Some hotels offer rooms geared for business travelers, with a stress on committed work areas. Once you've found a potential hotel, call the front desk directly and speak to the concierge or to a well-informed front desk clerk. Enquire about the facilities provided by the hotel such as internet accessibility, conference rooms; transportation etc. If the hotel has the features out lined below then you will definitely have a successful business trip.
Essential features of a great business:
Location:
Hotels that are positioned near an airport or located in a city's business quarter generally cater to business travelers. Airport hotels rarely offer views, but they make up for it with expedient location. Location is why many recruiters characteristically plan interviews in airport hotels. It is easier to fly in, meet numerous applicants, do some work in the business center, and fly back home.
Internet Access in the Room: Most hotels offer some form of Internet access whether it's use of the business center's computer, high-speed access in the room, or wireless. The business travelers need to know where the next high-speed Internet fix is coming from, so he can stay productive on the road.
Speedy, Customer Service: Hotel specialists are in the business of providing good customer care. Business hotels make the important difference of offering good customer care quickly and proficiently. A guest's requirements must be met speedily so that he or she can concentrate on the professional reasons they are there primarily.
Business centre: It is absolutely a must for a hotel to have this facility. It should also be equipped with the latest technologies and state-of-the-art office equipment, services include tele-videoconferencing, high-speed Internet access, high-speed duplicating, printing, colour printing, colour copying, scanning and document processing, as well as courier, secretarial services, telex and fax.
Conference Rooms: Conference rooms or boardroom and a meeting room are a must if you plan to hold meetings seminars, promotions and exhibitions. These rooms must be equipped with audio + video conferencing facilities.
Easy Transportation: Business travelers need to be places punctually and with minimum hassle. Good business hotels more often than not offer transportation shuttles to all key business areas, or aid travelers with hiring taxis or private cars.
Restaurants & Bar: Business travelers need to be able to have the facilities of in hotel restaurants, to be able to meet associates over drinks, lunch or dinner. It’s best to have at least two types of specialty cuisine restaurants and a bar in the hotel itself.
100% Effort: Good business hotels allow travelers to concentrate on their jobs by working out the small and big stuff (taking care of problems like misplaced luggage etc.). The extra level of service in a good hotel is a boon to the traveler.
On a business trip avoid family or holiday hotels and it is always best to research the business hotel before booking.
Essential features of a great business:
Location:
Hotels that are positioned near an airport or located in a city's business quarter generally cater to business travelers. Airport hotels rarely offer views, but they make up for it with expedient location. Location is why many recruiters characteristically plan interviews in airport hotels. It is easier to fly in, meet numerous applicants, do some work in the business center, and fly back home.
Internet Access in the Room: Most hotels offer some form of Internet access whether it's use of the business center's computer, high-speed access in the room, or wireless. The business travelers need to know where the next high-speed Internet fix is coming from, so he can stay productive on the road.
Speedy, Customer Service: Hotel specialists are in the business of providing good customer care. Business hotels make the important difference of offering good customer care quickly and proficiently. A guest's requirements must be met speedily so that he or she can concentrate on the professional reasons they are there primarily.
Business centre: It is absolutely a must for a hotel to have this facility. It should also be equipped with the latest technologies and state-of-the-art office equipment, services include tele-videoconferencing, high-speed Internet access, high-speed duplicating, printing, colour printing, colour copying, scanning and document processing, as well as courier, secretarial services, telex and fax.
Conference Rooms: Conference rooms or boardroom and a meeting room are a must if you plan to hold meetings seminars, promotions and exhibitions. These rooms must be equipped with audio + video conferencing facilities.
Easy Transportation: Business travelers need to be places punctually and with minimum hassle. Good business hotels more often than not offer transportation shuttles to all key business areas, or aid travelers with hiring taxis or private cars.
Restaurants & Bar: Business travelers need to be able to have the facilities of in hotel restaurants, to be able to meet associates over drinks, lunch or dinner. It’s best to have at least two types of specialty cuisine restaurants and a bar in the hotel itself.
100% Effort: Good business hotels allow travelers to concentrate on their jobs by working out the small and big stuff (taking care of problems like misplaced luggage etc.). The extra level of service in a good hotel is a boon to the traveler.
On a business trip avoid family or holiday hotels and it is always best to research the business hotel before booking.
Ista hotel Bangalore
A luxury business city-hotel, Ista is a trend setting concept, set up in the heart of India's silicon valley, the globally renowned centre of India's software industry, Bangalore. Situated conveniently close to the city's business and shopping centres, the hotel offers spectacular views of the Ulsoor lake and the cityscape, breaking the traditional concepts of luxury and redefining the term to set new standards of comfort levels and the ultimate in style.
A selection of world class dining is available in the hotel's two restaurants and one bar, each with it's own distinctive character. The hotel offers exclusive meeting and banquet venues as well as a state-of-the-art business centre, making it the ideal choice for the selective traveler.
A selection of world class dining is available in the hotel's two restaurants and one bar, each with it's own distinctive character. The hotel offers exclusive meeting and banquet venues as well as a state-of-the-art business centre, making it the ideal choice for the selective traveler.
Facilities
Classic contemporary efficient.
Our facilities include a fully geared Business Centre with state of the art facilities coupled with boardroom and a small meeting room. The hotel also has a multi function room to cater to meetings, theatre style seminars and promotions and exhibitions, and ofcourse, sit down dinners and lunches with full and latest audio + video conferencing facilities.
Last but not the least (foremost), the Reception and Entry Lobby sets the tone and gives flavor and the character to the whole
GUEST ROOM
Broadband internet access
Dual line telephones with dataport
Personal bar
Tea and coffee maker
Electronic safe
Voltage 110-220
Ergonomically designed, the most comfortable bed in town
LCD TV in all the rooms
Bathrooms with a view
All electronic controls by the bedside
24 - hour room service
HOTEL SERVICES
Broadband internet access in all guest areas
Business centre with workstations and private meeting rooms open 24 hours
Concierge
Car rental
Laundry and valet service
Doctor on call
Trinity Shopping Arcade
LEISURE
Temperature controlled outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi
Steam and sauna
State of the art fitness centre
Our facilities include a fully geared Business Centre with state of the art facilities coupled with boardroom and a small meeting room. The hotel also has a multi function room to cater to meetings, theatre style seminars and promotions and exhibitions, and ofcourse, sit down dinners and lunches with full and latest audio + video conferencing facilities.
Last but not the least (foremost), the Reception and Entry Lobby sets the tone and gives flavor and the character to the whole
GUEST ROOM
Broadband internet access
Dual line telephones with dataport
Personal bar
Tea and coffee maker
Electronic safe
Voltage 110-220
Ergonomically designed, the most comfortable bed in town
LCD TV in all the rooms
Bathrooms with a view
All electronic controls by the bedside
24 - hour room service
HOTEL SERVICES
Broadband internet access in all guest areas
Business centre with workstations and private meeting rooms open 24 hours
Concierge
Car rental
Laundry and valet service
Doctor on call
Trinity Shopping Arcade
LEISURE
Temperature controlled outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi
Steam and sauna
State of the art fitness centre
Conferences
Seating capacity
| AREA AND SETUP | DIMENSIONS (In Feet) | NUMBER OF GUESTS |
| ISTANA I | 33 X 36 | |
| Theatre | 60 | |
| Classroom | 35 | |
| U Shape | 30 | |
| Sitdown | 30 | |
| Lounge | 80 | |
| Cocktail | 90 | |
| ISTANA II | 33 X 34 | |
| Theatre | 60 | |
| Classroom | 35 | |
| U Shape | 30 | |
| Sitdown | 30 | |
| Lounge | 80 | |
| Cocktail | 90 | |
| ISTANA I and II | 33 X 70 | |
| Theatre | 150 | |
| Classroom | 75 | |
| U Shape | 40 | |
| Sitdown | 75 | |
| Lounge | 100 | |
| Cocktail | 150 | |
Various Restaurants at Ista
Classy ambient open. Music to set the mood views to entrance spaces you’ll never want to leave.
DINING AND BAR Liquid - An alfresco experience with live music and a delectable menuThe ambience of a rooftop garden, Views of the city heights, the balmy Bangalore breezes and a live band to set the mood.
Zaman - The speciality Indian restaurant A fine dining experience ,which seamlessly intregrtes the traditional with the modern , with an understated elegance that leaves its own unique imprint on the Ista experience.
Lido - All day dining overlooking the beautiful temperature-controlled pool Named after the old theatre, on the grounds of which the hotel now stands, Lido offers a table d'hote menu, along with a large selection of contemporary eastern and western cuisine. A place to lounge in, to unwind, to just sit and think. The place that has it all.
DINING AND BAR Liquid - An alfresco experience with live music and a delectable menuThe ambience of a rooftop garden, Views of the city heights, the balmy Bangalore breezes and a live band to set the mood.
Zaman - The speciality Indian restaurant A fine dining experience ,which seamlessly intregrtes the traditional with the modern , with an understated elegance that leaves its own unique imprint on the Ista experience.
Lido - All day dining overlooking the beautiful temperature-controlled pool Named after the old theatre, on the grounds of which the hotel now stands, Lido offers a table d'hote menu, along with a large selection of contemporary eastern and western cuisine. A place to lounge in, to unwind, to just sit and think. The place that has it all.
Bookings
- The hotel's modern and contemperory 143 rooms and suites are an elegant statement of contemperory chic promising the ultimate in style and world class comfort.
Rate from 1st October 2008 to 30th April 2008 - TARIFF Rates in INR
- Room category Single Double
- Premium room 15,000 15,500
- Deluxe room 16,000 16,500
- Luxury Room 19,000 19,500
- Executive Suite 27,000 27,000
• The above rates are subject to 12% Government tax.
• The rates for Premium rooms are inclusive of breakfast.
• The rates for Deluxe Rooms are inclusive of Breakfast and one way airport transfer.
• The rates for the luxury rooms include breakfast, one way airport transfer, 03 pieces of laundry, internet
access, and 24hrs of coffee /tea at lido- All day dining, cocktail hours from 19:00hrs-20:00hrs early check
in from 9:00hrs, late check out until 16:00 hrs, international newspaper.
• The rates for the Executive Suite include breakfast, two way airport transfers, 3 pieces of laundry,
internet access, 24hrs of coffee /tea service at lido- All day dining, cocktail hours from 19:00hrs-20:00hrs early check in from 9:00hrs, late check out until 16:00 hrs, international newspaper and a bottle of wine
on arrival.
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE POLICY
Check-in - 1200 hours
Early arrival is subject to availability. For guaranteed early check-in, reservation needs to be made starting from the previous night.
Check-out - 1200 hours
Later check-outs are available on request and subject to availability
GUARANTEE POLICY
All bookings must be guaranteed at time of reservation by credit card or advance payment.
All major credit cards are accepted.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Reservation must be cancelled 48 hours prior to the planned arrival time. One night's room charge will be levied in case of non arrival or for cancellation received less than 48 hours before the scheduled arrival time.
CHILD POLICY
One child under 9 years of age can stay in the parents' room without being charged.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Ista Bangalore Location
Ista is located on Swami Vivekananda Road, in the heart of Bangalore'scentral business district and shopping area, barely 8 km from the airport.
DISTANCES FROM THE HOTEL
FROM DISTANCE TIME
International airport 08 km 20 min.
Domestic airport 08 km 20 min.
Railway station 14 km 40 min.
City centre 02 km 10 min.
Address:1/1 Swami Vivekananda Road, UlsoorBangalore-560 008India
Visit: http://www.istahotels.com/main.html for more information.
DISTANCES FROM THE HOTEL
FROM DISTANCE TIME
International airport 08 km 20 min.
Domestic airport 08 km 20 min.
Railway station 14 km 40 min.
City centre 02 km 10 min.
Address:1/1 Swami Vivekananda Road, UlsoorBangalore-560 008India
Visit: http://www.istahotels.com/main.html for more information.
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